Sylvia Barnes

1947 - 2025

Sylvia J. Barnes, 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on August 14, 2025, in Newton, Kan. She was born July 9, 1947 in Detroit, Mich., the daughter of Rodney and Eleanor (Zetye) Hanson. She was the beloved wife of Jerry Barnes for 58 years, a devoted mother to sons John and Eric and proud Grandmother to her five grandchildren.

She was an artist, a passion that led her to pursue higher education at the University of Wyoming, completing an MFA at the University of Nebraska-Kearney. For years she owned and operated the Sign Shop in Lexington, Nebraska providing custom-painted sign services to the community. She was also an avid gardener and loved helping her husband Jerry design and maintain his garden railway, ponds and landscapes. She loved reading and was a life-long learner, always curious about the world and innovations.

Jerry and Sylvia loved each other more each year of their marriage. Her loving spirit will be sorely missed by all, but she will never be forgotten. Her family cherishes the time they had with her and memories that were made.

Sylvia is survived by her husband, Jerry; son, John (Leah); son, Eric (Dawn); grandchildren, Emily, Jack, Haven, Olivia (Jonah), Callah; and sister, Ellen (Dan). She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Priscilla.

A memorial service will be family only. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans, a group that was important to Sylvia and Jerry. https://www.dav.org/.